A team of retired former soldiers, called the Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC) Association Ultra Apostles, joined forces to complete the Edinburgh Marathon on Sunday 25th May in aid of soldiers, veterans and their families. All 13 participants served in the RAPTC, and each veteran was carrying a British Army weighted backpack or ‘bergen’ weighing 25-30lbs.
Twelve of the group covered the distance on their feet, while fellow veteran, Tom Prentice, 66, who is paralysed on one side, raced in his bespoke trike. Tom had a stroke in 2009 and the paralysis he experienced has limited his opportunities to get fit and to enjoy the activities he had previously. When Tom approached the ABF for funding assistance towards a specialist E-Assist Trike, they were the first charity to contribute, with a grant of £3,000. After raising further funds from other service charities and a team fundraising event, Tom was presented with the new trike.
Tom says: “It dramatically changed my daily life by providing me with a means of exercise and has given me access to areas I couldn’t venture to before.”
Martina Prentice, Tom’s daughter, added: “If you had asked me 17 years ago whether I could ever imagine him completing a marathon, I would’ve said absolutely not. This incredible man has just proved me wrong. He may be disabled, but he’s never let that define or limit him. With every mile, he showed that determination, courage, and resilience are stronger than any obstacle. I want to thank the ABF and The RAPTC Association for funding his trike – it has completely revolutionized his life.”
Team leader, Charles Wilkinson said: “These extraordinary veterans put themselves on the line to raise much needed funds for two fantastic military charities. Together they demonstrate how much the ABF and The Royal Army Physical Training Corps Association will always be there to help and support our servicemen and women and their families in their time of need. It was tough but we were spurred on by the support of family, friends and the fantastic Edinburgh crowds, waving banners and cheering!”
The team have already raised over £7,000, which will be split between our charity and The Royal Army Physical Training Corps Association. There’s still time to support the team with a donation – please visit their fundraising page here.